BOC seizes P3.98M worth kush and vapes at Port of Clark

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized high-grade marijuana, or 'kush,' worth P3.98 million and assorted cannabis-infused disposable vapes at the Port of Clark on Wednesday.

During an x-ray inspection on May 25, 2,132 grams of kush and 156 cannabis-infused disposable vapes were found concealed in a parcel initially declared as accessories from California, US.

K9 sniffing indicated possible prohibited drugs, leading to a physical examination that confirmed the presence of high-grade marijuana and vape cartridges.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency later verified through laboratory analysis that the items were indeed illegal drugs.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the shipment for violating several provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized the bureau's commitment to combating drug trafficking, stating the seizure is a testament to their efforts in ensuring border security.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced that it would require all vape products sold in the country to have internal revenue stamps starting June 1, 2024.